Bill > S1339

This bill aims to promote the option of alkaline hydrolysis (AH) and natural organic reduction as after-death care options in Massachusetts. The key provisions of the bill are: 1. It amends various sections of Massachusetts law to include "alkaline hydrolysis" and "natural organic reduction" alongside "cremation" as accepted methods for the disposition of human remains. 2. It defines "alkaline hydrolysis" as a dissolution process that uses chemicals, heat, agitation, and other methods to accelerate natural decomposition, reducing the body to bone fragments and a sterile solution. 3. It defines "natural organic reduction" as the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. 4. It allows cemeteries and funeral establishments to conduct alkaline hydrolysis and natural organic reduction, in addition to cremation, and establishes procedures for the disposition of unclaimed remains using these new methods. 5. It sets requirements for the conduct of alkaline hydrolysis and natural organic reduction, such as the minimum time between death and the procedure, and the necessary permits and approvals. Overall, the bill aims to expand the after-death care options available to individuals in Massachusetts by introducing alkaline hydrolysis and natural organic reduction as alternatives to traditional burial and cremation.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S1339